Celebrating 30 Years of Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge: Pooja Ruparel Remembers the Magic
As Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge (DDLJ) marks its 30th anniversary, nostalgia fills the air for fans and actors alike. Pooja Ruparel, who played Chutki, Kajol’s younger sister, isn’t shy about sharing her treasured memories from this iconic Bollywood classic that still draws audiences to theaters decades later.
A Personal Reflection
In a heartfelt interview, Ruparel, then just 12 years old, reminisced about her experience on the DDLJ set. “No one can claim their film has been in theaters for 30 years,” she said. Her voice brimmed with pride as she reflected on being part of a project that has brought joy for generations. “I can never throw myself a pity party again; this was the biggest part of my life,” she added.
Magical Moments with Legends
One of the most enchanting aspects of her experience was working alongside stars like Kajol and Shah Rukh Khan. Pooja described their on-set chemistry as “fire and water,” an elegant balance of charisma and humor. Her cherished memories include observing their camaraderie. “Seeing Kajol bounce off the walls and discover her confidence was inspirational,” she recalled, noting the ripple of excitement on set as romance blossomed.
Kajol: The Pampered Princess
Ruparel humorously revealed that Kajol was treated like royalty during filming. “Yash Chopra would make sure Kajol’s ice cream wishes were granted, bringing in tubs of Baskin-Robbins,” she recalled, emphasizing the warmth of the set. “You just knew you were part of something special.”
Challenges and Closer Bonds
The filming process also came with its challenges. Pooja noted that the climax was both exhilarating and exhausting, filled with board games and campfires at night as the crew bonded over shared experiences. However, the pressure of perfecting one particular scene loomed heavy: “We didn’t have monitors back then, and I remember feeling guilt when we couldn’t recall if I wore my specs,” she said, laughing at how it added to the excitement.
Conclusion: A Timeless Legacy
As we celebrate DDLJ’s three-decade journey, it serves as a powerful reminder of the film’s enduring legacy. Pooja Ruparel’s memories echo the magic that transcended the screen, forging friendships and inspiring countless hearts. “It was like living in a film school,” she expressed, encapsulating a spirit of creativity and camaraderie that continues to resonate with fans and aspiring artists worldwide.
For those nostalgic for love stories that capture the imagination, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge remains a heartfelt chapter in the annals of cinema, reminding us all that true love is a tale worth telling again and again.
